Player Ratings: The Three Lions Book Their Place for 2026 World Cup
Gareth Southgate's side clinched their berth at the 2026 World Cup with a comfortable victory over their opponents on the midweek fixture.
England's Starting XI
- Jordan Pickford – Pulled off a couple of excellent saves in the second half to preserve his impressive clean sheet run. That's nine straight in a row. 6.5
- The full-back – Has adapted to international football like a duck to water. Tougher tests are coming, of course, but a promising start to his England career. 7
- Manchester City's centre-back – Two games in a short span will do the Manchester City defender a lot of good. Remains one of the first names on the starting lineup, fitness permitting. 7
- Ezri Konsa – Selected ahead of the other option and didn't put a foot wrong. Made an superb last-ditch recovery tackle in the second half to boot. 7
- Arsenal's talent – Appeared a slightly off the pace at times, understandable given his limited game time at Arsenal. An intriguing few months ahead. 6
- Elliott Anderson – Seems undroppable in this England team at the moment. Appears tailored for this level and has formed an strong partnership with Rice. 7
- The midfielder – Excelling in his attacking role. The mainstay of England's midfield is demonstrating his attacking abilities now. Emerging as a real all-round midfielder. 7
- The forward – Not as impactful as he has been in England's victories over other teams. It will be revealed next month who is the leading candidate of the number 10 shirt. 6
- The winger – Provided an assist to his superb goal against Wales last Thursday. Will be vital to England's prospects next summer. 7.5
- The captain – At his peak. Took his count for the season to 20 strikes. Has scored 76 times for his country. Will he achieve 100? 8
- Anthony Gordon – Clinical finish to open the scoring for England here in Riga. Has done a good job during this break. 7.5
England Substitutes
- The experienced midfielder (for Rice 60) – Maintained the tempo in midfield. 6
- Eberechi Eze (for Rogers 60) – Superbly finished goal and a menace. 7
- Jarrod Bowen (for Saka 60) – Battles on his hands to be selected when all are available. 6
- Newcastle's full-back (for Stones 71) – Typically, managed everything with his height. 6
- Marcus Rashford (for Gordon 71) – A quick burst down the left caught the eye. 6
After their place secured, England can now focus for next summer with high hopes.